Kenrokuen Garden
Hakuba Mountain Harbor
KANAZAWA GARDENS AND OLD TOWN —
Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens, and stroll through the historic Higashi Chaya District.
Traditional wooden teahouses, local crafts, and fresh seafood from Omicho Market offer an authentic introduction to Kanazawa's cultural heritage before continuing to the Japanese Alps.
HAKUBA IWATAKE PANORAMIC VIEWPOINT —
Ride a scenic gondola to Hakuba Iwatake and enjoy breathtaking views of the Northern Japanese Alps. Explore mountaintop walking trails, relax at panoramic viewing terraces, and experience the refreshing alpine atmosphere that makes Hakuba a premier green-season mountain resort.
HAPPO POND MOUNTAIN WALK —
Journey into the alpine zone via the Happo Alpine Line and hike to the iconic Happo Pond. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, the trail offers spectacular scenery and one of Hakuba's most photographed landscapes, where the Alps are reflected in the pond on clear days.
HAKUBA OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND ALPINE HOSPITALITY—
Hakuba is also home to a selection of refined mountain retreats and award-winning dining experiences. Visitors can savor seasonal ingredients prepared with internationally inspired techniques and exceptional attention to detail, adding a touch of luxury to their alpine stay.
Together with hot springs, outdoor adventures, and a relaxed atmosphere, Hakuba provides an unforgettable mountain escape before continuing on to Tokyo.
| Day1 |
Discover the Timeless Charm of Kanazawa
Arrive in Kanazawa, one of Japan's most beautifully preserved castle towns. Start your journey at Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan's three great landscape gardens. Its ponds, bridges, and seasonal scenery reflect centuries of refined Japanese aesthetics. Continue to the Higashi Chaya District, where traditional wooden teahouses line charming streets that have retained their historic character. Browse local craft shops, sample regional delicacies, and experience the atmosphere of old Japan. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties inspired by the rich waters of the Sea of Japan. |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hotel in Kanazawa |
| Day2 |
From Historic Kanazawa to Alpine Hakuba
Travel from Kanazawa to Hakuba, where the scenery transforms from historic city landscapes to the majestic peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps. Upon arrival, visit Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort. A scenic gondola ride carries visitors to the summit, revealing breathtaking panoramic views across Hakuba Valley and the surrounding mountains. Relax at Hakuba Mountain Harbor, one of the area's most popular viewing terraces, and take in the fresh alpine air while enjoying spectacular scenery. Whether strolling through forest trails or simply admiring the mountain landscape, visitors quickly discover why Hakuba has become one of Japan's premier mountain destinations. |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hotel or lodge in Hakuba |
| Day3 |
Alpine Adventure at Happo Pond
Experience one of Hakuba's most iconic natural attractions. Ride the Happo Alpine Line into the mountains before following scenic trails toward Happo Pond. On clear days, the surrounding peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps are reflected in the pond's still waters, creating one of Japan's most unforgettable mountain views. The route offers an accessible way to experience authentic alpine scenery and the dramatic beauty of Hakuba's natural environment. After your hike, relax in a traditional hot spring and enjoy a memorable dining experience featuring seasonal ingredients and refined cuisine inspired by both local traditions and international culinary techniques. |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hotel or lodge in Hakuba |
| Day4 |
Hakuba Adventures and Journey to Tokyo
Spend one final morning enjoying Hakuba's vibrant green season. For active travelers, Hakuba offers exciting outdoor experiences such as rafting on crystal-clear alpine rivers, cycling through scenic mountain landscapes, and leisurely nature walks surrounded by the magnificent Northern Japanese Alps. These activities provide a refreshing way to experience the region's natural beauty beyond its famous viewpoints. After lunch, depart Hakuba and travel to Tokyo. As the scenery changes from alpine mountains to Japan's dynamic capital, travelers can appreciate the remarkable contrast between the country's natural landscapes and urban energy. From the historic traditions of Kanazawa to the breathtaking mountain scenery of Hakuba, this journey offers a unique opportunity to experience two distinct sides of Japan before continuing on to Tokyo and the next stage of your adventure. |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Hotel in Tokyo |
Discover Two Sides of Japan in One Journey
Experience two contrasting yet complementary sides of Japan on this green-season itinerary through Central Japan.
Begin in Kanazawa, a historic city known for its beautifully preserved districts, refined cultural traditions, and exceptional cuisine. Wander through elegant gardens, explore atmospheric teahouse streets, and discover the craftsmanship that defines the region.
Then continue to Hakuba, nestled in the heart of the Northern Japanese Alps. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, Hakuba offers spectacular viewpoints, scenic gondola rides, and outdoor experiences that showcase a completely different side of Japan.
Together, Kanazawa and Hakuba create a unique journey that blends culture and nature, offering an ideal escape beyond Japan's major urban destinations.